Corrosion

Definition of Corrosion

Corrosion is defined as a refined metal that is naturally converted to a more stable form such as its hydroxide or sulphide state. Metal corrodes when it reacts with another substance such as oxygen, hydrogen or bacteria. Corrosion can also happen when metals are placed under too much stress causing the material to crack. Corrosion leads to deterioration of the material.

Stainless steel is highly corrosion resistant, making it suitable for use in environments where exposure to moisture, chemicals, or harsh conditions such as salt water is expected.

In this section you can find newsitems related to all types of corrosion such as stress corrosion cracking, intergranular corrosion, pitting, and corrosion fatigue. If you wish to include your news release on our website and email newsletter, please feel free to contact the editor.

NeSSIE competition to combat offshore corrosion

NeSSIE, short for North Sea Solutions for Innovation in Corrosion for Energy, is a project designed to tap into the existing knowledge of anti-corrosion technology / novel materials solutions in the maritime sector supply chain to develop demonstration projects for offshore renewables in the North Sea.

Sandvik, Jiuli to collaborate on Sanicro® 25

Sandvik and Jiuli Hi-Tech Metals are entering into a partnership for the supply of Sanicro® 25 high alloy, austenitic stainless-steel tube to specifically target the expanding market for low emission coal fired power generation.

Creaform’s Pipecheck 5.0 software major enhancements

Creaform, a portable 3D measurement solutions and engineering services, recently announced the release of Pipecheck 5.0, which features major enhancements enabling integrity assessment for full pipe joints.

Inflatable welding enclosure

Welding applications within industries such as the Aerospace, Additive Manufacturing and F1 Racing as well as Medical, Pharmaceutical, Semiconductors and any other company that needs super clean welding joints, have a requirement of absolute cleanliness and smoothness of surfaces, ensuring each weld is mechanically stable and free from oxidation.

Capstone secures new orders for offshore platforms

Capstone Turbine Corporation, the clean technology manufacturer of microturbine energy systems, announced that it has secured additional orders for multiple C65s that will be used on numerous offshore platforms located off the coast of Malaysia and Brunei.

SIFCO ASC expands R&D team

Supplier of selective plating technology and solutions, SIFCO Applied Surface Concepts (ASC), part of Norman Hay plc, has expanded its R&D team by welcoming new Corrosion Engineer, Sarah Mederios.

SPX receives CTI certification for Marley CP Fiberglass

SPX Cooling Technologies, Inc., a full-line, full-service industry leader in the design and manufacture of evaporative cooling towers and air-cooled heat exchangers, announced that the Marley® CP fiberglass, induced draft, counter-flow cooling tower has received certification from the Cooling Technology Institute (CTI).

Joelle receives 2018 Duplex World Lifetime Achievement

At each Duplex World Seminar, a Lifetime Achievement Award is bestowed on an individual who has made an outstanding contribution to the global materials industry.

Axium Process Hygienic Fabrication

Axium Process specialise in hygienic engineering design, fabrication and system solutions utiilising a wide range of corrosion resistant superalloys including exotic alloys; Hastelloy®, Duplex®, Inconel®, and Monel® as well as high performance engineering plastics such as PEEK®.

Ruland’s new installation and assembly tools

Ruland adds a new accessory product line including key stock, hex keys, and torque wrenches to assist with assembly and installation of shaft collars and couplings.


Corrosion can be a big problem because it can cause significant damage and deterioration to various materials, particularly metals. We have listed below several reasons why corrosion is a significant concern:

Structural Integrity: Corrosion weakens the structural integrity of materials. When metals corrode, they lose their strength and load-bearing capacity, which can lead to failures and collapses in infrastructure, buildings, bridges, pipelines, and other critical structures.

Economic Impact: Corrosion imposes substantial economic costs. The direct expenses associated with corrosion include repairs, replacements, and maintenance of corroded structures and equipment. Additionally, there are indirect costs such as production losses, decreased efficiency, and increased energy consumption due to the effects of corrosion on industrial processes and machinery.

Environmental Consequences: Corrosion can have adverse environmental effects. For example, in the case of pipelines, corrosion can lead to leaks and spills of hazardous substances, causing soil and water pollution and damaging ecosystems.

Health and Safety Risks: Corrosion can create health and safety risks in various ways. For instance, when corrosion affects pipelines or storage tanks carrying toxic substances, it can lead to leaks or releases that endanger the health of workers, communities, and the environment.

Maintenance and Downtime: Corrosion necessitates regular maintenance and inspection programs to detect and mitigate its effects. This requires significant time, effort, and financial resources. Additionally, when corrosion-related issues arise, it often requires shutting down operations, causing downtime and productivity losses.

Given these reasons, it is crucial to understand and address corrosion through preventive measures, protective coatings, corrosion-resistant materials, regular inspections and testing (ASTM B117), and appropriate maintenance practices to mitigate its impact and ensure the longevity and safety of structures and equipment.